Handbuilding Taster Workshop

€45.00

A two-hour introduction to using handbuilding techniques to create your own mug, cup or bowl. Professional potter Lydia will guide you through the steps using pinching and coiling techniques. The classes are small (3 people per class) and allow for each student to receive tuition on technique and form. This class is suitable for absolute beginners to more experienced makers; please note that we will be working slowly through basic techniques during the first hour so that everyone can get to grips with the clay. Each student will have their own share of tools, plenty of clay, and an apron. 

Taster classes are an introduction to the medium of pottery and are a way to get a feel for the technique but make simple and playful work without worrying too much about the final result.

Students can choose one pot to be finished and glazed for them to collect at a later date.

There are refreshments provided and a bathroom in the adjoining house.

These classes are discounted at an introductory price to accommodate for feedback and promotional materials.

These classes are suitable for ages 16+

Date:

A two-hour introduction to using handbuilding techniques to create your own mug, cup or bowl. Professional potter Lydia will guide you through the steps using pinching and coiling techniques. The classes are small (3 people per class) and allow for each student to receive tuition on technique and form. This class is suitable for absolute beginners to more experienced makers; please note that we will be working slowly through basic techniques during the first hour so that everyone can get to grips with the clay. Each student will have their own share of tools, plenty of clay, and an apron. 

Taster classes are an introduction to the medium of pottery and are a way to get a feel for the technique but make simple and playful work without worrying too much about the final result.

Students can choose one pot to be finished and glazed for them to collect at a later date.

There are refreshments provided and a bathroom in the adjoining house.

These classes are discounted at an introductory price to accommodate for feedback and promotional materials.

These classes are suitable for ages 16+

Additional Info:

Along a quiet suburban street you will find Lydia’s pottery studio, fully equipped for a day of wildly inspiring ceramic fun. Based in Kilkenny City, a designated World Craft Council Craft City and Region, Kilkenny is rich in passionate craftspeople and their studios. Originally from London, Lydia brings her background in fashion design to her work through vibrant colours and shapes in her personal work, and an attention to detail in her teaching. The class takes place in a working pottery studio filled with in-progress and ‘ready to buy’ pots made by Lydia. Passionate about creating a welcoming and engaging teaching environment in her studio, she makes sure each student comes away with an understanding of the making process and a passion for the fabulous material that is clay!

Pottery has been a part of Kilkenny for hundreds of years. By taking part in a taster session with Lydia Smith Ceramics, visitors will have the chance to connect with this ancient craft directly. Each participant will try their hands at making their own unique piece of pottery, either using the pottery wheel or using ancient hand building techniques. Visitors are invited to retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city and take the time to pause and enjoy this magnificent craft in a joyful environment.

Accessibility:

  • The studio is a separate building to the main house and is accessible via the main gate and one double door. There is a ramp into the main studio space. There are no options for wheelchair accessible pottery wheels or tables.  

  • There is a bathroom in the main house, but this is not wheelchair accessible.

  • There are uneven floors and changes in elevation throughout the property, please walk carefully in unfamiliar places

  • The studio is situated on a busy suburban road, there is on street parking available but I ask all visitors to be careful of my neighbours’s driveways and front doors. I urge those who can, to walk to class from Kilkenny City

Other Info:

  • Please wear sensible shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Short nails are recommended and long hair must be tied back

  • Due to the small class size, the class may not go ahead if there are not enough participants.

  • My insurance only covers students of ages 16+ 

Cancellation policy:

  • Cancellations up to 7 days before can receive a refund or date change and transfer your space to someone else. Please contact me as I may have a waiting list

  • Cancellations received with less than 5 days notice or ‘no shows’ on the day will not be able to receive a refund or date change

  • Lydia reserves all rights to cancel or postpone the workshop if full capacity is not reached.  If Lydia is unable to attend a class due to illness or other emergency, you will be notified you as soon as possible 

  • The course price does not include postage of the ceramics after the glaze firing. Postage usually costs no more than €12. Pots can be collected from my studio for no extra cost